To a woman, losing a breast is not the same as losing a limb, or another part of your anatomy. I’m not saying that it’s better or worse, it’s just different – devastatingly so. I remember a friend, who lost her right breast to breast cancer, remarking that she wished she’d lost a finger, or even an eye, because at least she wouldn’t feel like “less” of a woman. I thought about that statement for a long time and was inspired to share a list of some post mastectomy products that can help restore your confidence. Plus: Take our quiz to see if you can discern between cancer myth and fact...

My friend's comment brought to mind the days of the great Amazonian warrior women – who cut off one of their breasts to improve their ability to hunt or fight with a bow and arrow. Now, we have no arrows, only images and fashions promoting the need to have “perfect” breasts.

So, in honor of my beloved friend Susan and all of the women who have experience breast loss, without excluding those who would like theirs to be a little bigger or different – I have found a couple of amazing merchants who have dedicated their online stores to keeping women everywhere feeling “more” than a woman, no matter what your breast issues may be.

The Enhancement Corporation of America (TECOA)I’m in love with the Enhancement Corp because their credo is to deliver the most “advanced and natural External Silicone Breast Prostheses at the lowest price,” and they do just that.

Their catalog includes a nice variety of breast prostheses, enhancers, lumpectomy forms, bras, swimwear and more. In brief, here’s some of what they offer:

- Breast Prostheses: I’ve actually touched one of their breast prostheses, and I must say, I’m not shamed to admit that in the least! Seriously, these feel great, and they look great underneath clothing. I also like the fact that you can get prostheses with or without a nipple, depending on your preference. They also have a new, fully attachable breast form and the adhesive strips to make it all come together simply and securely.

- Breast Enhancers: These offer a low-cost alternative to painful augmentation therapy, and can be easily slipped into a bra to increase bust size as much as two to three cup sizes, or give your bust a little “life” for some saucy cleavage.

- Fashion Pocketed Bras: Many different sizes and styles for comfort and support, as well as romance and leisure. Includes pockets to fit prostheses and enhancer forms.

- Swimsuits: All of their suits come with built in bras to accommodate prostheses.

Another note on this merchant, they do have a privacy policy to protect their customers, as well as wonderfully helpful customer support.

Nearly You Transform Breast Forms

Nearly You was developed by Ruth Handler in 1976. Ruth created the Barbie Doll, and was the former CEO of the well-known Mattel Corporation.

A mastectomee herself, Ruth devoted her efforts to creating quality products tailored to the physical and emotional needs of the mastectomee. Although I have not had first-hand experience with Ruth’s products, the information I found seemed that these products are top-of-the-line as well.

Nearly You has mastectomy products including: breast enhancers, scar reduction products and skin protection items. They also have shapewear, bras and panties!

Some of the products they offer that differ from other products I’ve found:

- Triangle Foam Breast Forms: A lightweight alternative to the silicone breast forms these may be more comfortable during the healing process. They are symmetrical, machine-washable, and affordable.

- Scar Reduction: This is an “anchor” shape made of silicone that, when attached to your post-surgery skin, forms to it and lubricates, stimulating the production of collagen.

- Silicone Shoulder Pads: I’ve ordered a pair of these. They don’t stick to your bra or your skin, but they do stay in place and provide padding between your skin and your bra strap.

Those are some examples of the many more out there for women who have suffered from breast cancer. In the end, what’s most important is your comfort with your body. Your physical and mental health is what combines to make a more beautiful you, so remember to nurture yourself first and always.

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